Rumors during the NFL draft stated the Texans were interested in acquiring Mallett. Nothing developed, and the Texans eventually selected Pitt’s Tom Savage in the fourth round.

The supposed interest stems from the Texans’ overall lack of talent at the quarterback position and Mallett’s history with Texans head coach Bill O’Brien, who was the Patriots’ offensive coordinator during Mallett’s rookie year.

Mallett, 25, is a former third-round pick many believed was a first-round talent in the 2011 NFL draft. He is also entering his final year of his rookie contract.

Belichick’s public proclamation regarding Mallett could mean one of three things:

The Patriots weren’t previously able to trade Mallett, and he is now officially off the market.

By saying they don’t want to trade Mallett, the Patriots are trying to drive up his value for those teams that may still be interested in making a deal.

The Patriots are comfortable with Mallett as Tom Brady’s backup this year, they’ll let him walk in free agency after the season and then prepare the team’s second-round pick, Jimmy Garoppolo, to be Brady’s heir apparent.

The Patriots still have a five months before the NFL’s trade deadline. With Mallett expected to look for a new opportunity after the season, they’ll listen to offers.